Part of the linear boundary known as the Wansdyke 420m south west of Barrowmead Cottage

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

History & significance

Part of the linear boundary known as the Wansdyke 420 metres south west of Barrowmead Cottage is a section of an important early medieval earthwork that runs for several miles across the Somerset landscape. The Wansdyke is generally understood to date from the late sixth or seventh century and represents a significant linear defensive or territorial boundary, though scholarly debate continues regarding its precise original function and dating. This particular section, like the broader monument, comprises a substantial bank and ditch formation that would have served to demarcate and possibly fortify the landscape. The monument's survival in the Somerset countryside provides valuable evidence for understanding early medieval territorial organisation and construction methods in the region.

Part of the linear boundary known as the Wansdyke 420m south west of Barrowmead Cottage is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1007005. View the official record →

Questions & answers

Other scheduled monuments within 10 km

Generate a full report for this location

Aubrey generates in-depth historical research for any address in the UK — drawing on scheduled monument data, Domesday records, Roman heritage, PAS finds and medieval history to reveal the complete story of a landscape.